Champagne Tour
France Bike + Barge Tours
A bike & boat tour in France from Paris to Épernay or Épernay to Paris
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length7–8 days
- Prices from€1315 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
During this bike and boat tour in France, you will pedal through the beautiful Marne River Valley and the world-famous Champagne region, either beginning in Paris, the city of light, or ending there depending on your tour date.
In 2015, UNESCO granted the Champagne area world heritage status! The vineyards, wine cellars, and sale houses where the grapes are grown stored, and produced are all culturally significant. In fact, there are many sparkling wines but only the wine produced in this region of France with its chalky soil and perfect climatic conditions can be called Champagne.
You will have the opportunity to cycle to boutique wineries, sample a variety of champagnes, taste delicious Brie cheese, and generally discover everything that the Champagne UNESCO world heritage region has to offer.
And if the Champagne region was not enough, you will also have the opportunity to explore Paris, one of Europe’s most beautiful and beloved cities.
"Remember gentlemen, it's not just France we are fighting for, it's Champagne!" Winston Churchill
On the Zwaantje, this tour is an electric bike tour and the itinerary will be for 7 days/6 nights.
Highlights
- The city of Meaux, well known for its Brie cheeses
- Château-Thierry, the scene of major battles in World War I
- The scenery and endless vineyards on the rolling banks of the Marne River
- Epernay
Watch a preview of the tour!
Looking for more? Be sure to view all of our bike & barge tours in France.
Itinerary
Paris to Epernay (7-day electric bike tour)
Day 1: Paris - Lagny-sur-Marne - Paris, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 2: Lagny-sur-Marne - Meaux, 13 or 26 mi. (22 or 42 km)
Day 3: Meaux – La Ferté-sous-jouarre, 16 or 32 mi. (27 or 52 km)
Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Château-Thierry, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Day 5: Château-Thierry – Dormans – Epernay, 19 or 35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
Day 6: Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km); visit Epernay and Champagne houses
Day 7: Departure from EpernayIf there are 18 or more booked, two tour guides will be riding and on certain days can offer a longer or shorter itinerary. When there are less than 18 guests aboard, the tours will be accompanied by one knowledgeable and multi-lingual tour leader. During days when two bicycle options are possible, the tour leader will make a choice to guide the longer or the shorter option after consultation with the group.
Not all mentioned highlights can be visited during the short cycling option.
Day 1: Paris/Lagny-sur-Marne
At 11 a.m., join the Marne river cruise in Lagny-sur-Marne. After a warm welcome, embark on a bike tour along the scenic river. Pedal past Champs-sur-Marne's enchanting chateaux and explore its beautiful gardens. Immerse yourself in the charm of 18th-century leisure residences and experience the grandeur of Château de Champs-sur-Marne, one of the most exquisite châteaux in Ile-de-France.Day 2: Lagny-sur-Marne - Meaux, 13 or 26 mi. (22 or 42 km)
In Lagny-sur-Marne, you ride, mainly along the Marne river and its parallel canal. In case you opt for the short ride, the first challenge is the hill near Chalifert. The barge will take the tunnel through the hill, but cyclists can test their fitness and muscles for the first time by climbing and crossing the hill by bicycle. Also on the longer option, the first part is quite hilly because you have to leave the valley of the Marne. Later you will follow the small Canal de l’Ourq that was built by Napoleon to transport wood, grain, and freshwater to Paris. Today’s destination is the city of Meaux, famous for its “Brie de Meaux” cheeses and the magnificent Cathedral St.-Etienne. Night in Meaux.Day 3: Meaux – La Ferté-sous-jouarre, 16 or 32 mi. (27 or 52 km)
Today, you have two cycling options. The shorter route takes you through charming villages and forests along the south bank of the Marne River, offering picturesque views and gentle slopes. The longer route begins in the river valley, passing through Trilport and Lizy-sur-Ourcq, before embarking on challenging hill climbs towards Jouarre. In Jouarre, indulge in a delightful presentation and tasting of the renowned Brie de Meaux and Brie noir cheeses at the family-run Fromagerie Ganot. Afterward, return to the boat for dinner and spend the night in La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre or a nearby village.Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Château-Thierry, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Embark on a rewarding cycling adventure from La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre to Château-Thierry. Ride alongside the picturesque Marne River, then venture through scenic countryside, charming villages, and forested side valleys. Explore the notable WW1 American War Cemetery and Monument near Belleau, before descending towards Château-Thierry. Indulge in a delicious dinner on board and spend the night in this historic town, known for its castle, significant battles, and being the birthplace of renowned writer Jean de la Fontaine.Day 5: Château-Thierry – Dormans – Epernay, 19 or 35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
During breakfast, the ship will take you to the lock of Mont St. Pierre or even a bit further upstream to Dormans. Today marks your entry into the official Champagne area. Dormans, a tranquil village on the Marne, boasts a castle and chapel commemorating the Battle of the Marne during World War I. As you cycle up the northern valley slope towards Châtillon-sur-Marne, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Marne valley and the Champagne vineyards. Along the way, don't miss the magnificent Château de Boursault, a grand castle built in 1848 by the widow of Mr. Cliquot, lending its name to the famous Champagne wine, "Veuve Cliquot." Tonight, there is no dinner on board, giving you the opportunity to choose from the delightful local restaurants in town.Day 6: Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km)
The last half-day of cycling leads from Epernay and follows the peaceful canal parallel to the Marne River. You pedal your way to Ay and Mareuil-sur-Ay before returning via Dizy to visit Hautvillers where a rewarding ascent awaits as you reach this picturesque Champagne winegrowers' village on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims. Don't miss the highlight of the tour—a visit to the chapel with the tomb of Dom Pérignon, the influential monk who revolutionized winemaking techniques. Afterward, cycle back to Epernay and enjoy a tour of the town center, renowned for its magnificent neo-Renaissance and classical-style townhouses. Indulge in a Champagne tasting and take a tour of one of the major Champagne houses. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner on board and spend the night in Epernay.Day 7: Departure from Epernay
Disembarkation after breakfast by 9:30 AM.Epernay to Paris (7-day electric bike tour)
Day 1: Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km)
Day 2: Epernay - Dormans - Château-Thierry, 19 or 35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
Day 3: Château-Thierry - La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Meaux, 18 or 32 mi. (30 or 52 km)
Day 5: Meaux - Lagny-sur-Marne, 15 or 30 mi. (24 or 45 km)
Day 6: Lagnyo-sur-Marne - Paris, 23 or 32 mi. (38 or 51 km)
Day 7: Departure from ParisParis to Epernay (8-day tour)
Day 1: Embarkation in Paris
Day 2: Paris - Lagny, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 3: Lagny - Meaux - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Day 4: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Chateau Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Chateau Thierry - Dormans, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: Dormans - Epernay, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 7: Excursion to Reims by train
Day 8: Epernay
Day 1: Embarkation in Paris
Arrive at the barge, moored in central Paris, between 12 and 2 PM. Once all guests are on board, the barge will cruise the Seine upstream to the confluence of the rivers Seine and Marne.Day 2: Paris - Lagny, 22 mi. (35 km)
Leave Paris near the Bois and chateau of Vincennes. The route today is mostly on cycle paths and quiet roads with little traffic.Day 3: Lagny - Meaux - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Explore the region of Brie today, famous around the world for its soft cheese. Cycle into Meaux, famous for its unfinished Gothic cathedral. Some hills after visit to city center. Mooring not far from the little town of La Fertésous-Jouarre. Optional visit to Jouarre (church, abbey, crypt) on the hilltop.Day 4: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Chateau Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
As you cycle the countryside, you will encounter some hills today. Cycle past the vineyards of the Champagne-region and visit Chateau Thierry.Day 5: Chateau Thierry - Dormans, 22 mi. (35 km)
Today's route is along the river with a few hills. On the agenda is a visit to a park and WWI memorial in Dormans. The afternoon is free to explore Dormans.Day 6: Dormans - Epernay, 25 mi. (40 km)
From the mooring near Dormans, cycle through vine-covered fields and over some hillier terrain to Epernay, the center of the Champagne industry. Visit one of the many Champagne houses for a guided tour in the cellars.Day 7: Excursion to Reims by train
After breakfast, leave the Marne valley to go to the ancient town of Reims by train. The roots of the town date back to the Roman empire. There is a Forum and the Porte de Mars, a monumental triumphal arch.This day has two highlights:
• A visit to the Cathedral de Notre Dame. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in this cathedral. Destroyed in the Great War it was carefully restored in its old glory.
• Visit of one of the largest Champagne brands: Pommery. The famous Heidsieck champagne originates from this house. Over 100,000 bottles are stored here. If you already have seen and tasted enough champagne, you can pay a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts or walk around town.
Day 8: Epernay
Tour ends after breakfast.Epernay to Paris (8-day tour)
Day 1: Arrival in Epernay, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 2: Visit of Reims
Day 3: Epernay - Chatillon sur Marne, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Chatillon sur Marne/Dormans - Château Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Chateau Thierry - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Meaux - Lagny, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Day 7: Lagny - Paris, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: Paris
Day 1: Arrival in Epernay, 9 mi. (15 km)
After arrival on board, you will settle into your cabin and try out your rental bikes. Enjoy a glass of Champagne aboard during the welcome meeting!Day 2: Visit of Reims
After a short train ride, visit the ancient town of Reims. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in the cathedral of Reims.This day has two highlights:
• A visit to the Cathedral de Notre Dame. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in this cathedral. Destroyed in the Great War it was carefully restored in its old glory.
• Visit of one of the largest Champagne brands: Pommery. The famous Heidsieck champagne originates from this house. Over 100,000 bottles are stored here. If you already have seen and tasted enough champagne, you can pay a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts or walk around town.
Day 3: Epernay - Chatillon sur Marne, 25 mi. (40 km)
Ride from Epernay, a center of Champagne with the most famous Champagne enterprises. A visit to one of the champagne production houses is planned including a guided tour in the cellars. Ride around the champagne area. Optional is a visit to Hautevillers, well-known because of Dom Perignon. Enjoy the landscape as you cycle the valley. Visit the birthplace of pope Urban II (the Pope who started the medieval crusade, statue high upon the hill, at Chatillon sur Marne).Day 4: Chatillon sur Marne/Dormans - Château Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today's bike ride begins at 9 AM in or near Dormans. A visit to the war monument in park is planned. You'll encounter some slopes in the vineyard region. Cycle along the river to the town of Chateau Thierry.Day 5: Chateau Thierry - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 28 mi. (45 km)
Start the bike ride at 9 AM. As you cycle along the river, you'll encounter some hills. Optional is a visit to the abbey of Jouarre. Mooring in or near La Ferté sous Jouarre.Day 6: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Meaux - Lagny, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
From Champagne into the Brie region, ride into Meaux, the capital of the soft white, Brie cheese. Meaux is also known for its unfinished cathedral.Day 7: Lagny - Paris, 22 mi. (35 km)
Cycle along the river into Paris on quiet bike trails. The presence of the big city is visible, but the route is mostly on roads with fairly low traffic. You'll enter the city near the Vincennes park and castle and meet the ship near the Bassin de la Villette at the confluence of Marne and Seine.Day 8: Epernay
The tour ends after breakfast.If France isn't your thing, be sure to check out our full list of bike and barge tours or our entire catalog of bike trips.
Map
Boats & Bikes
- Zwaantje
Comfort Class Barge
The MPS Zwaantje, which means "Little Swan", is a wonderful comfort class barge. The boat has 10 cabins with twin beds and 2 cabins with double beds. A large common room with heating, air conditioning, large panoramic windows, a restaurant area, lounge corner, and a small bar are on the upper deck. Read More
- Feniks
Comfort Class Boat
This comfortable little vessel is the pride and joy of its captain/owner, Marius. As is true for many of our boats, the Feniks was originally built as a freighter, but then converted into a hotel passenger ship in 1992. Since then, she has undergone several renovations. Wearing her history well, you will find a welcoming atmosphere on board, a crew ready to serve, and great food showcasing local cuisine featuring fresh fruits and vegetables straight from the market to the table. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
Zwaantje
- Accommodation on board for 6 nights in a climate-controlled cabin
- Breakfast, packed lunches, & 5 three-course dinners
- Coffee & tea on board
- Complimentary welcome drink
- Daily cleaning of the cabin
- Daily tour briefings
- Fully guided cycling tours. Second tour guide will be added for more than 18 guests.
- Some short walking tours
- Maps for cycling tours (1 set per cabin)
- GPS tracks via app
- Electric bike with helmet, water bottle, lock, & pannier bag
- Bike protection
- Fees for ferries
- Brie cheese tasting in Jouarre
- Champagne tasting at a local producer
- A visit to a champagne cellar in Epernay
- Wi-Fi (signal strength & speed may not be what you are accustomed to)
- Accommodations for 7 nights
- Breakfast, packed lunches & 6 three-course dinners
- 24-speed hybrid bicycle with pannier bag, frame lock, & water bottle. Helmets are available.
- Multilingual tour guide
- Route program with city maps
- Coffee, tea, & biscuits
- Afternoon snacks
- Tour of wine cellar & wine tasting
- Daily cabin cleaning
- Laundry service (clothes are returned clean but not dry. Clothes can be hung midship)
- Ferry fares
Feniks
What’s Not Included
Zwaantje
- Beverages not mentioned as included 1 dinner
- Admittance fees to museums, attractions, not mentioned as included etc
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Beverages not mentioned as included
- 1 dinner
- Museum entrance fees other than those indicated as included
- Gratuities
- Bike protection
- Travel Insurance
Feniks
Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Comfort Class
Feniks
8-day Tour
Saturday departures
Paris to Epernay: June 22, 2024
Epernay to Paris: June 29, 2024Cabin type
Luxury twin cabin $ 2830 £ 1464 $ 2,493 € 1675 ₪ 6973 ¥ 265284 NZ$ 3059 NOK 19179 kr 19849 $ 1,883 Regular twin cabin $ 2484 £ 1285 $ 2,188 € 1470 ₪ 6119 ¥ 232817 NZ$ 2684 NOK 16832 kr 17419 $ 1,653 Single cabin $ 2957 £ 1530 $ 2,605 € 1750 ₪ 7285 ¥ 277163 NZ$ 3196 NOK 20038 kr 20737 $ 1,967 Bunk bed cabin for twin use $ 2222 £ 1150 $ 1,957 € 1315 ₪ 5474 ¥ 208268 NZ$ 2401 NOK 15057 kr 15583 $ 1,478 Zwaantje
7-day Electric Bike Tour
Sunday departures
Paris to Epernay: May 26, June 9, & June 22, 2024
Epernay to Paris: June 2, June 16, & June 29, 2024All departures Twin $ 3319 £ 1717 $ 2,923 € 1964 ₪ 8176 ¥ 311056 NZ$ 3586 NOK 22488 kr 23273 $ 2,208 Twin/single-use $ 4957 £ 2565 $ 4,367 € 2934 ₪ 12214 ¥ 464683 NZ$ 5358 NOK 33595 kr 34768 $ 3,298 Extra Options
Zwaantje
Regular touring bike not available (e-bike only)
Feniks
Electric bike rental (limited number, please reserve in advance) $ 161 £ 83 $ 141 € 95 ₪ 395 ¥ 15046 NZ$ 173 NOK 1088 kr 1126 $ 107 Special dietary requests - gluten free, dairy free, vegan, etc. (price is per diet, per week) $ 127 £ 66 $ 112 € 75 ₪ 312 ¥ 11878 NZ$ 137 NOK 859 kr 889 $ 84 Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate
For tours on the Zwaantje, this tour will be offered with an electric bike included. On an electric bike, this tour becomes as easy or difficult as you would like. Adjust your level of assistance to your desired support. On a touring bike, offered on the Feniks, this tour is a moderate-level tour for experienced and well-conditioned cyclists. The tour is fully guided and every day you will cycle along small country roads (short distances on dirt or semi-paved roads and tracks) that go up and down the hills adjacent to the river valley and through Champagne vineyards. Cycling distances vary from 30–50 km (19–31 miles) per day. You can also cycle self-guided for short stretches if you prefer. It is assumed that you are fully prepared for your cycling itinerary, have good balance on your bicycle and have excellent command at all times.
Airport Info
Fly into Charles De Gaulle International Airport in Paris. (CDG)
Local Travel
Local travel will depend on the boat you are booked on.
Zwaantje:
For tour starts in Paris: The Zwaantje will be docked at the Quai de Bercy, along the Seine River near the bridge Pont de Bercy. Station Gare de Lyon is not far from the docking location. To get to Gare Du Lyon from the airport you can take either an airport shuttle, the RER train, Line B, or a taxi.
For tour starts in Epernay:
From CDG, you can take a train to Epernay. Transfers and travel time depend on departure time and type of train. The boat is moored approx. 1 km from the train station.
Feniks:
For tour starts in Paris: The boat usually docks at the Quai de l’Oise, near Bassin de la Villette. From CDG, take a train to gare du Nord and gare du Nord, you walk to metro station La Fayette - Dunkerque and take bus line 54 (€2) or metro line 7 (€2) to Crimee. Travel time is approximately 15 minutes. From Crimee station, it is just a short walk to the boat.
For tour starts in Epernay:
From CDG, you can take a train to Epernay. You will have to change trains in Reims (TGV station Champagne/Ardennes). Travel time is approx. 2.5 hours. The train station is located about 1.5 km away from the embarkation point so it is recommended to take a taxi.All final docking locations are subject to change and will be provided to you approximately one month before your tour date.
Climate
The climate of the Champagne region is mild and consistent, especially considering its northern location, and contributes as much as the grapes themselves to the production of champagne. This region has extended sunny days in the summer and early fall because of its northern location. Estimates indicate the Champagne region experiences 500 hours of sunshine per year. Be sure you check local conditions before your arrival. Please see below for Monthly Weather Averages.
Day of Rest
Any day can be designated a day of rest by remaining on board.
Remarks
Due to the continual rising costs for fuel, a fuel surcharge may apply. The exact amount of the fuel surcharge will be determined 28-35 days before the start of the trip based on the fuel price applicable at that time. The fuel surcharge must be paid in cash on arrival on board the ship.
Important to know
DOCUMENTS
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc. For our other international clients, please be sure that you research your own country's travel requirements. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure proper documentation.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Extra Stay
You may want to consider booking some extra nights in Paris! We recommend We recommend Booking.com for researching and reserving your extra nights.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Boat Bike Tours & Feniks Charter.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
Reviews
Mary Ann D.
3 weeks agoVerified Reviewer
Susan C.
4 weeks agoVerified Reviewer
Sandra H.
4 weeks agoVerified Reviewer
Maureen G.
1 month agoVerified Reviewer
georgia p.
2 months agoVerified Reviewer
Derek G.
2 months agoVerified Reviewer
Gillian H.
1 year agoVerified Reviewer
Anne Denise H.
4 years agoVerified Reviewer
Cheree ONeill
4 years agoVerified Reviewer
Mark H.
4 years agoVerified Reviewer
Orest M.
5 years agoVerified Reviewer
Ray S.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Barry B.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Karyn P.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Barry B.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Martha Y.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Michael F.
6 years agoVerified Reviewer
Jeff K.
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
Paul L.
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
Fulton A.
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
D. Power
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
D. Miller
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
M. Dumestre
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
C. Robinson
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
D. Quigley
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
D. Uram
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
C. Bauer
7 years agoVerified Reviewer
Tripsite Customer Reviews
Mary Ann D.
3 weeks ago
Verified Reviewer
Sandra H.
4 weeks ago
Verified Reviewer